There are some plumbing issues that are perfectly reasonable to tackle yourself as a homeowner. And then there are others that require the expertise of a plumbing professional. Trying to determine which is which can be a little tricky. We’d like to give you some pointers that can help you decide when to take a DIY approach and when to call a plumber.
Plumbing Jobs to Tackle Yourself
- Drain Clogs: If you have a blocked or slow drain in one place in your home, try a couple of things yourself. A sink plunger, thrust vertically with some standing water around it, may dislodge a clog. A drain snake might be able to pull out or dislodge your clog. Don’t use chemical drain cleaners! They’re not safe for you or your plumbing.
- Low-Risk Jobs: Assess what might go wrong and how bad it could be. If you know how to shut off the water to your bathroom sink, for example, changing the faucet should not pose any major hazards to you or your home. Don’t forget the risk of having to pay for something twice if your DIY fails.
- Non-Specialized Jobs: If something only requires simple tools and limited knowledge of plumbing, it might be reasonable to give it a try yourself.
Plumbing Jobs to Leave to the Professionals
- Widespread Drain Issues: If you have bigger problems with your drain or sewer pipes, call a plumber. The signs of this include multiple clogged drains, recurring drain clogs, unpleasant smells, mold invading your basement, or places on your lawn that are suspiciously soggy or where the grass is surprisingly lush and green.
- Widespread Foul Odors: If more than one drain is emitting nasty smells, or you can’t eliminate odors with baking soda and vinegar, it may be that sewer gasses are escaping into your home. A blocked sewer vent could be the culprit, and it’s critical to get help immediately because those gasses are toxic.
- High-Risk Jobs: If a poor result from a DIY attempt could result in significant cost, water damage or a broken major appliance, let the professionals handle it. Keep in mind that amateur work on appliances could result in voided warranties.
- Specialized Jobs: If you are uncertain how to approach a problem, or don’t have the necessary tools, that’s exactly what plumbers are there for.
- Installations: Amateur installation of appliances such as water heaters are one of the main causes of increased repair needs throughout the life of the appliance, and will almost definitely void your warranty. Always get off to a good start with a professional installation.
- Urgent Needs: If it would pose a big problem to have your issue unresolved for days while you tried to figure it out, call for plumbing repair in Orlando.
- Gas Line Work: Never work on a gas line yourself. Our team is highly trained and qualified to do such work safely. Amateur gas line work is so dangerous that in most places, it is actually illegal. Protect yourself, your home, and your family by relying on professionals.
Contact Modern Plumbing Industries, Inc. today and reach professionals with the training and experience your home deserves.